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Left to Right: Pocket Operater - 12 Rhythm by Teenage Engineering, Recently purchased these synthesizers and am learning how to create backup music for the purpose of using with my trumpet improvisations. I'm hoping to perform live online or in person with these so I don't have to rely on a computer or laptop. I plan on uploading some videos as soon as I can come up with some music that I like!

In music , as in life, it's difficult to set out on a seperate and personal path.

First you have to choose a direction, one based on personal skills and interests.

Then you need to find helpers, friends who share your interests and want to join you in your explorations.

And there are always the usual rocks and gullies to navigate around, wrong turns and other complications. It takes time and hard work and the most difficult part (for me at least) an unshakable focus towards the job in hand.

But when you ultimately succeed a creation is born that is unique, an out of the ordinary experience for the listener.

In my opinion Celestial Navigation is on this path and has been for a while.

Composer, violinist/violist, Didem Somel, is an award winning musician who is also vocalist and keyboard. Her jazz oriented solos on violin Saturday were outstanding.

Glen Anderson, a jazz bassist has a long resume that includes the Tower of Power Horns among other well known bands.

Last night my friend Nick dragged me out of my safety zone away from the comfort of my computer, keyboard, trumpets where I like to spend my spare time creating new music all by myself (hence the name ZeroPlusOne).

He wanted me to hear a band from New England, Parsonsfield at a local club in Bellingham, The Green Frog. Nick had heard the band years ago and thought they pretty good.

We settled down with a couple of root beers in the small, friendly confines of The Green Frog.

So, in previous blogs I've whined and complained about the lack of creativity in popular music today. It almost seems like the popularity of music today is determined by flashy advertising and music produced in slick, high quality recording studios where notes are tuned electronically and balanced through separate channels and tracks.

Last night I heard a group that was loaded talent and energy. The group used lots of non-traditional instruments such as saw, harmonium, melodica, accordian, electronic synt…